Written by Beverley LennonCo-written by Matin Firas Harahap, Cisca Lim

Be it the food, shopping, or the gorgeous views, visitors come from all over to experience different things to do in Bandung’s exquisite atmosphere. In Bandung, capital city of the West Javanese province, you’re never short on things to do.

Nestled between three mountains, Bandung is well known for its cool calming weather, similar to that of places in higher altitudes. That’s also probably a reason why Bandung is commonly referred to ‘Paris van Java’ for its rich heritage in arts and culture.

Rates from USD $41.15 (Approximately Rp. 590,000) for studio room

4. Hang in the sky like Spiderman – Tebing Gunung Hawu

This mountain blows plenty of other mountains out of the water. Here’s where your superhero dreams come true, and “hanging out” takes on a completely different meaning.

Photo via alfiansprasetyo

For sunrise enthusiasts, Tebing Gunung Hawu boasts a fantastic viewpoint to watch the sun wake up for its morning duties. Better yet, you can catch that sunrise from your perch in a hammock, hanging precariously between two towering cliffsides. Has that image gotten your adrenaline running?

Hammocking was popularised by a group of locals in a bid to increase tourist activity in the area, – and thus prevent limestone miners from continuing to destroy Gunung Hawu’s environment. Mother Nature is pleased with you.

Photo via dian_lisnawaty_hmy

The mountain is also renowned for the massive “hole” that you can see in the middle of the mountain. It’s also the reason why the mountain was christened “Hawu”, which means “fireplace” in Sundanese.

Since you’re here, how can you pass up on snapping a picture with this rare sight? If you’re lucky, you might even catch the sunlight filtering in through the hole, creating an ethereal sight.

Rates : From USD $34 (Approximately Rp. 460,000) per night

8. Visit the Hobbit house in Bandung! – The Farm House

Farm House is located right smack on Jalan Raya Lembang, and takes about an hour’s drive from the city center to get there. (It’s on the edge of the highway, so it’s pretty easy to find too!)

Photo via dimas.adha, ririnnfajriyah, riniutaami, vianprasetyaa

Newly opened to tourists and residents in Bandung, Farm House combines agriculture, film, and wanderlust all in one place.

With its European-styled buildings, and the Hobbit house reminiscent of Lord of the Rings – a trip here will be both educational and entertaining at the same time.

The Farm House is a suitable place for the whole family. Children can have fun running amok in ​​the big garden areas, while parents enjoy the fresh cool mountain air and great views while taking photos.

It’s truly Instagram-worthy and will create the perfect backdrop for some of your favourite holiday snaps!

9. Head to Europe (almost): Visit Kota Mini

Dreaming of ancient European architectures and picturesque surroundings to bring you back to an era steeped in culture and tradition? Now you don’t need to bear the hefty price of flight tickets to Europe as Kota Mini has freshly landed in Bandung!

Photo via silvi_wahyudi

Located in the area of Grand Hotel of Lembang, Kota Mini is a place where fun and good times co-exist, since June 2017. Like the third child of the “Lembang’s most Instagrammable” family, this little town sits comfortably after its siblings – the Floating Market and the Rainbow Garden.

Beauty runs in every corner of the little town. Flamboyant buildings will transport you right into a real movie scene!

This is the perfect place to get your kids ready for the adult world too! (At least, the most enjoyable parts of adulthood.) Encourage them to take part in their dreamiest professions by role-playing police officers, firemen, little chefs, baby doll nursing and much more!

Photo via susianahandayani, chanzz87, sindi_ramdani_raharja

Get a memorable family photoshoot with your little ones. Dress up in Holland-inspires clothes and roam around the town. How much more vintage can it get?

Photo via nurkomalasari, enike_lusiana76

Kota Mini is equally cat and teddy bear lovers’ paradise! We won’t say more but promise you the best of times!

Photo via jenn_yoenna

Rest assured, hunger and thirst are taken care of too. Head over to Kota Mini little café and satisfy your cravings!

Photo via jenn yoena

End your day with some play time at Kota Mini Hobbit Playground along with a memorable train tour of the entire little town, before heading over for dinner at the town’s outdoor restaurant. We don’t think a family-fun day can get any better!

If Chinese food isn’t your thing, fret not – Bandung’s Chinatown is also dedicated to authentic Sundanese food. Must try: Snack on some Bakso Goreng, Nasi Lengko (traditionally from Cirebon) and anything spicy! You’re in Indonesia after all!

You can even check out a museum where you can find a collection of vintage Chinese artefacts such as porcelain bowls and plates.

Photo via damaredesign, ferry.11

The general ambience is enhanced with the flamboyant overhead lanterns suspended along the street. Shops here propose a collection of clothes, souvenirs, home decorations and accessories. It is indeed a good place to practise your bargaining skills!

Photo via anastasia.jonathan, sanhesti, my.appetite

Don’t forget to drop by the merchandise store for some antique home decor. (Yes it’s time to give your living room a little vintage look!)

You can even rent traditional Chinese clothes that’s worthy of your social media feed!

Photo via benakribo

Tip: Purchases in Bandung’s Chinatown need to be made via debit card or flazz card (no cash is accepted).

11. Explore the hidden canyon of River Cikahuripan

Have you heard of Cikahuripan river’s hidden canyon, located just one kilometre away from the entrance of Cikahuripan tourism spot?

Photo via hens4m

The path is dominated by giant rocks all the way up the two towering cliffs of 10 metres high, spreading up to 100 metres wide from one side to another.

Wedged between the fossil cliffs is a small beautiful river of Cikahuripan. Its water glistens in the distance, creating an inviting body of crystal turquoise pond.

The water goes as deep as 4 metres, but some rocky spots are shallower, so you can enjoy it with your family.

Cikahuripan River

More info (tap to expand)

Address: Raja Mandala Cipongkor, Saguling, Batujajar, West Bandung Regency, Bandung West Java 40561Phone: +62 83 822 673 834Getting there: Get to Rajamandala, Padalarang, then turn left to Waduk Saguling. Take a right turn at the last trijunction before Waduk Saguling, and you’ll soon see a small warung with a sign ‘Wisata Cikahuripan’. Continue by foot for around 1 km. Coordinates hereEntrance Fee: Rp. 10,000 per person (Approximately USD $0.75)

Take a memorable dip in Bandung’s magazine-approved infinity pools

We’re not quite sure where infinity pools originate from but let’s just be grateful they exist.

Oh yes, what a time to be alive! It is one of the best ideas and most stunning man-made gifts of the 20th century! The best thing is that, in Bandung, some accommodations with infinity pools are coupled with the most mesmerizing views!

Bandung’s themed cafes and restaurants

Satisfy your craves in style

You must have heard that café-hopping is a thing in Bandung. What if we told you that there’s far more than the usual copy-paste minimalist concept cafés and restaurants?

You’ll be wondering if you’re still on this planet or one where your fantasies have become reality!

Discover Bandung’s uniquely themed eateries that stand out from the rest.

15. Super kawaii Doraemon-theme cafe in Bandung – D’ Moners Home

Love Doraemon? You don’t have to travel all the way to Japan to meet Fujiko F Fujio’s futuristic cat. D’Moners cafe will do more than satisfy your love for everything Doraemon right in Bandung!

From the hands of the owner who loves the adorable character, this two-storey cafe is designed to spoil Doraemon fans to the fullest. Level 1 is filled with comfortable tables and chairs decorated with Doraemon wallpapers, while Level 2 replicates Nobita’s house – complete with his bedroom and the iconic magic-drawer desk!

Photo via megaaputr, foodnotestories

The menu also takes on a Japanese theme with Doraemon written all over it. Enjoy special Doraemon bento sets, Ramen Ganari, Omurice Time Blanket, Jelly Translator Cheese and Doraemon’s favorite snack – Dorayaki Milk Pudding.

While you wait for your cute dishes to be served, you can enjoy the Doraemon dolls display, watch an episode or read the many comic books available. Don’t forget to take some iconic selfies while you’re at it!

Switch your fancy candlelit dinner with a whimsical cave dining. How much more of a fairytale dining experience can you get?

Right on the third floor of the multifunction building of Goldstar Sport Resto, a special series of all-white interconnected caves await. These Greece-inspired caves offer different concepts (outdoors, semi outdoors and indoors) too.

There is Megas Lakkos – a private area with blue lights, Korydallos – a secluded area with prison theme, and Stravomyti, Mykonos and Petralona which are the middle sections with giant glass windows.

Photo via infobdg, devi3412

The drawings on the wall depict ancient sketches and other symbolic patterns create that exotic ambience. Doesn’t that simply add to the romance?

Food here is also quite affordable, delicious and is halal. Enjoy favourite meals such as Nasi Goreng, chicken steak or spaghetti with plenty of drinks, including alcohol.

When you’re done cave-hiding, head up to their rooftop cafe on the 5th floor for 360-degree view of Bandung.

18. Almost a doll’s house: Nanny Pavillon Home

One of the newest kid in the block in Bandung (though it already has many branches in other Indonesian cities), the interior of Nanny Pavillon is a sweet eye candy with its pretty furniture and cute interior.

Here, you can choose which ‘room’ you want to dine in – be it the Dining Room, Bedroom, Garden, Playroom, or even the Bathroom (yes and your seats are toilet seats)!

As the concept stems from the owner’s belief in family gatherings and cosy treats, you will expect nothing but amicable service here, making you feel right at home.

Nanny Pavillon is also best-known for serving delicious French American pancakes. Highly rated are peach pancake with vanilla ice cream and blueberry pancake cheese roll.

Do taste its green tea pancake too!

If pancakes aren’t your thing, order some pasta and Western delights to whet your tastebud.

Let us impress you! We’ve actually found more than these:

19. Coral Rocks at the Top of a Mountain: Goa Pawon and Stone Garden of Padalarang

After a 20-minute hike up Mount Pasigit, there lies the mouth of Goa Pawon (Pawon Caves), a significant historic site where ancient human remains (now on display in Bandung’s Museum Geologi) were found.

Photo via kepinhelmy, mocryans

Take a few steps further towards the peak of the mountain and you will find an array of calcium-rich rocks, which are usually found along a beach.

Scientists believe that there once existed a sea stretching from Padalarang to Negreg, with Bandung lying hundreds of metres underwater. The theory is that a few volcanic eruptions later caused the valley to be formed.

Here, you can find seashells embedded on the rocks – bizarre indeed!

Since not many people know about this spot yet, make sure you bring your own water as there are no warungs open at the venue (as of now!).

You’ve certainly heard of Lembang’s popular Floating Market, a reproduction of Thailand’s traditional floating market where you can sample delicacies and other fresh products from locals. But did you know that lately, it has gained uniqueness and fascination over its Rainbow Garden?

Photo via andika_pramanaa, fiaisnufi

Blooming all year round, the Rainbow Garden welcomes visitors on a daily basis.

With Lembang’s ideal chilly weather, you can be sure to be able to admire a garden full of vibrant flowers (over 100 different species), most of which, believe it or not, are actually edible! This ensures that the flowers are safe for kids too.

Photo via nafiya.ssoedar_20, akang_bandung

You’ll be amazed by how beautifully those flowers have blossomed that you’ll want them in your garden as well (or mouth maybe). Why not purchase some plants and flowers for your loved ones?

Dine with Bandung’s most unbeatable views

Picturesque views do not always rhyme with rooftop! But when they do, it leaves you speechless. What better way to get a grip on the sights and sounds of Bandung than from its restaurants with breathtaking sights?

From summit settings to watch a sunset to pirate ship restaurants with scenic mountainous backdrops while you dine, you’re in for a treat; both visually and gastronomically.

21. Dine aboard a pirate ship – Pinisi Resto

Ever heard of Legok Kondang’s Pinisi Resto? A new discovery we’ve found, the Pinisi Resto is on a giant ship docked beside the lake and surrounded with gorgeous mountain views.

Photo via dudisugandi, barli8js, heni.efnd_

The kids will be ecstatic to climb aboard the ship and have one of the most unforgettable dining experiences ever. Serving up a BBQ feast, Pinisi Resto is a great place to bond with the family while feasting and play acting as pirates!

PS: Pinisi Resto is located in family glamping site Legok Kondang, do call ahead to make a reservation if you’d like to dine here!

24. Bamboo scene all the way!: Kebon Awi Kaffee

Disconnect from the big city life and transport yourself to a unique natural environment at Kebon Awi Kaffee.

Here, you can enjoy an open-air dining experience hidden in a “bamboo forest” of 25 different species. The cafe is also committed to sustainability and conservation of natural resources.

With an outstanding collection of bamboo species, Kebon Awi Kaffee also offers educational tours, workshops and sculptures’ gallery. This is another way to promote local talents through the concepts of sustainability.

Photo via egunarso, indahsulviani, ladybrendaaa

Depending on the size of your group, you will be accommodated in a little hut with comfortably padded sofas and tables. The biggest hut can accommodate up to 20 people while the smaller one is ideal for 4-6 people to dine in comfortably.

While the restaurant’s specialties are primarily traditional Indonesian dishes, they also cater to different tastes and have Western options. Must try: The Panna Cotta with blueberry and cherry toppings!

26. The Mystical lake above the Clouds: Kawah Putih

This Crater Lake, which formed after Mount Patuha blew its top, has been considered a mystical one – birds that flew near the area would die, which made people reluctant to find out what was really up there, until the 19th century when a German botanist explored the area and discovered a beautiful crater lake.

Photo via: Rinai Hujan

Its crystal blue waters changes with the weather conditions, and is lined with fine white sand, giving visitors an otherworldly experience. Even the vegetation around the area is quite different to those below.

27. Where nature meets modern comforts: Dusun Bambu Leisure Park

Tired of the same old sights of the city? Nestled atop a hill in Lembang, Dusun Bambu Leisure Park offers a view of lush greenery and crisp mountain air all within the comforts of modern architecture.

Covering 15 hectares of land, children and teens can roam freely in the beautifully manicured gardens and playgrounds or take part in the many activities ranging from pottery, mini golf, a hot air balloon, and even a shooting range!

Recently, they also added The Labyrinth – a new attraction designed to let your kids truly play on carpeted ground in slides, mini houses, tunnels and more to their hearts’ content!

Photo via sariatikah

For food, families have three restaurants to choose from – you can enjoy a private lunch at Lutung Kasarung in ‘bird’s nest’ cabins hanging on pine trees, taste traditional Sundanese cuisine at Purbasari in lakeside gazebos, or dine with a view of Mount Burangrang at the Burangrang Café.

Photo via andienprintyasari

The Pasar Khatulistiwa market is also available for guests who are looking for light snacks, vegetables, and souvenirs.

Not enough time to try out all the attractions at Dusun Bambu? How about spending the night at the Kampung Layung Villas complete with your own butler?

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, go ‘glamping’ at the Sayang Heoulang (Eagle Camp) – get closer to the outdoors in comfort!

Go cafe-hopping around Bandung’s photogenic cafes

Looking to brag about some unique cafés and induce some jealousy among your friends?

We’ve got you covered; Bandung hides some of the best ones. We’ve listed a few of the most exclusive ones so you won’t really have to hunt for them. You’re welcome!

Ranging from artsy food with a radiance of colours to the most exclusive concepts, you’ll need to free up some memory on your phone so you can snap away to no end!

28. The best seats in the swimming pool – Kalpa Tree Cafe

Dining by the pool side is cool, but a table right in the middle of the pool? That’s even more special!

A luscious blue swimming pool sits beautifully at the outdoor area of Kalpa Tree Cafe.

Right in the middle, there’s an opening with a flight of steps leading downwards to a circular dining area. This is the best seat in the house where you can admire the surroundings to your heart’s content.

Photo via mely_kartika, owenputrawijaya

The uber chic ambience extends from the outdoors right into its warm cosy space inside. You’ll love the combination of glass-frame doors, the stylish black spiral staircase and the open bar with a Western fireplace.

Here, you can find Western and Indonesian cuisine. Don’t miss out on its Nasi Goreng Kalpa, Dory Singapore Sauce and extra cheesy Spaghetti Carbonara. Wash it down with colorful drinks such as Bubble gum watermelon and orange juice!

Be sure to bring along a change of fresh clothes if you want to dip in the inviting pool. Just purchase a swim voucher for Rp.80,000 (approximately USD 6) which you can also use to spend on food.

29. Dine at a restaurant with a pool for the kids! – One Eighty Coffee

Newly opened in 2016, One Eighty Coffee provides a stunningly family-friendly restaurant where parents get the option of dining in water while kids splash about in a shallow pool.

Think tables and chairs set in a shallow pool. It’s a different experience for sure, and this hip restaurant delivers creativity in spades with its industrial style complete with brick walls and wood accents.

Photo via pratiwitiwiii, anindittaaa

Apart from the pool area of the restaurant, there are 2 floors with a spiral staircase going up. Get settled anywhere you wish and start ordering!

There’s Indonesian and Western cuisine on the menu such as Iga Garang Assam, and familiar favourites like Aglio Olio and English Breakfast – and boy do they look appetising.

PS: The water in the shallow pool goes a little above the ankles. Do wear slippers and shorts if you intend to dine in the water area of the restaurant, and bring a spare set of clothes for the kids if necessary!

Lembang makes for the perfect destination for mountaineers as it is situated on the highland of Bandung. So if you’re in search for the next adrenaline rush through height, then Batu Mount might just be the perfect choice for you.

Just as the name suggests, Gunung Batu or the Stone Mountain is dominated with large rocky surfaces all the way to its top.

Photo via dheajp04, mocryans

As one of the tallest mountains in Lembang, you get to witness the unobstructed view of other surrounding mountains such as Tangkuban Perahu, Gunung Putri, Bukit Tunggul and Palasari.

All of which enhance the vivid beauty of Mount Batu as a whole. It also makes for the best camping site to get your dose of sunrise

Gunung Batu, Lembang

More info (tap to expand)

Getting there: Get to Pasar Lembang by bus or public transport where Mount Batu is already in sight, you are just 3 km away from it. You can continue with public transport which passes every 15 minutes, motorbike ( ojek) or horse-pulled cart ( delman); All for a rather small fee ( less than Rp. 10,000 or USD $1/ person). Once you reach a “foot” only area, climb upwards for around 20 minutes to get to the top. Coordinates here

Bandung’s affordable romantic restaurants

Dine for two at a price for one

As a rule of thumb, romantic gastronomic experiences and hefty price tags go hand in hand. However, for many of us out there, spending hundreds of dollars on a single meal is simply an avoidable option.

Your date will love to be treated like a king or a queen at Belle Vue French and Italian Bistro.

The amorous atmosphere isn’t limited to the surrounds. Every detail is attended to as the chef prepares mouth-watering dishes for your enjoyment. The Poulette A ‘A Bierre, Tenderloving Beef, and Chocolate Zagablione won’t disappoint.

Be sure to come in the evening to enjoy the sunset view while dining like royalty atop this German-style castle.

If you can splurge more, try out the romantic rooftop dinnerin the Chapel of the Angels too!

32. Eat like true Parisians at Bilbao Brasserie

Bonjour, a table for two please! What’s more romantic than a soft and airy French-themed ambience complemented with perfectly melted cheese, tender steak and dim lights?

Welcome to Bilbao Brasserie, a uniquely themed and affordable restaurant for the most romantic tête-à-tête with your partner. Escape from overcrowded restaurants to enjoy your dreamy dinner for two.

Photo via airinagustinacaparas, juwitasharon, bandungcafe2017

Bilbao Brasserie perfectly illustrates traditional French brasserie, relaxed setting, and an all-day menu with a focus on French Raclette cheese (a type of melted cheese directly served from the cheese wheel).

The most-recommended dish is their steak with add-on Raclette. A waiter will come to gently scrape a huge, oozing pile of cheese over your tender steak accompanied by roasted potatoes. A real cultural experience!

Bandung’s fun family-friendly restaurants

In case you’re a foodie, we understand the struggle in managing kids while you indulge.

Thanks to some lovely indoor and outdoor concepts at Bandung’s restaurants, you no longer need to worry about such situations.

Yes, you read that right! Finally restaurants are welcoming children with open arms and it’s a chance for you to put aside the inevitable public tantrum embarrassment.

33. Have a fun and cosy beanbag family lunch to amazing views – Lereng Anteng

For parents looking for a kid-friendly place to dine at with stunning panoramic views of Bandung, fresh mountain air, and great coffee – head to Lereng Anteng.

Get seated in colourful beanbag chairs, and enjoy the refreshingly cool weather and misty mountain views. Up on the menu, choose from local favourites ranging from Indonesian to Sundanese fare. As for coffee, you might be happy to hear that Vietnamese Drip coffee is available here too!

Photo via andriannvg, adilaramanisa, meilianaluvceline

Apart from the views, the fun and cosy beanbags and the food, remember to bring along a board game or two for a fun family treat!

34. Picnic is always a good idea: Le Delice Café and Bakery

Downtown Bandung is home to one of the most fascinating picnic-themed cafés.

Revamping a traditional family dining experience, the café is set on grass with a garden patch (synthetic grass so don’t worry about kids getting dirty) beautified with actual picnic props – the traditional checkered picnic cloth as well as the ultimate picnic basket filled with bakery options.

35. Fly into photogenic paradise at Dago Dream Park

Dago Dream Park is not just any family park,but it is styled with a distinct Balinese nuance that will instantly put you in a relaxed mood.

The trees and statues around are decorated with the iconic black and white checkered cloth, while the big bridge entrance above the running river stands steady and proud.

Located in the hilly and chilly Lembang, Dago Dream Park welcomes you with these family attractions you must not miss:

35-a. Discover a whole new world from your flying Aladdin carpet

With the endless pine forest as your backdrop, feel the rush of adrenaline as the Aladdin carpet takes you up for a ride from one end to another. You’ll stop for a short while in the middle of the ride, but the secure safety gears will keep you safe while you pose for photos.

Photo via ilhamfudholi20

If you purchase the professionally taken printed photos, the cables are edited out for that extra “floating in the air” effect, but of course, if you’re a seasoned Instagrammer, you’ll probably be able to do that yourself!

35-b. Selfie with the clouds during Skybike

Pedal along as the Skybike takes you across the beautiful landscape of Lembang. Don’t the panoramic emerald green forest and mountain in the distance appear so surreal in the mist?

Whether it’s for a best friend’s reunion, a Saturdate brunch or a solo time out, 107 Garage Room is a creative space with a warm welcoming ambience coupled with your favourite light-food menus, fine coffee and local fashion brands. You’ve heard right! All these under one roof!

Photo via putrarmdhn

Who can say no to a hipster place with beanbags where you can lounge comfortably, catching up on gossip with your friends, coffee in one hand and burger in another?

Photo via tesamalia, olinadaily

107 Garage Room is home to Bandung’s favourite outlets ranging from the famous burger joint Brother Jonn & Sons to the inevitable coffee shop – Two Hands Full Coffee.

Photo via peggykakkkoi, dailyculinary_, kanca.digital

You will also be able to get your hands on unique clothing pieces at the shopping vents showcasing local brands and talent. All these are in line with 107 Garage Room’s mission, which is to support start-up brands in the local industry.

Bonus point: With its minimalist concept, boho food truck, and flamboyant seating, this space will definitely earn a feature on your Instagram feed!

Have we inspired you to travel to Bandung? Where would you like to visit? Do share your thoughts in the comments section, we would love to hear from you!

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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Aroused by raging rapids, perilous peaks and cheesecake. Beverley lives and breathes for travel and there is no way her wanderlust will ever be appeased. Born with feet in the water, many know her as the travel junkie, but feel free to refer to her as the luxury spots connoisseur or island specialist, both suit her very well. Her latest credit card statement could be proof of just how much she loves travelling the world. Besides collecting coins and notes from countries she visits, Beverley also collects tan lines!